Review of takeaway licence conditions in Alice Springs

On 12 June 2018, following an own initiative inquiry, the Northern Territory Liquor Commission (the Commission) varied conditions regulating takeaway sales for 19 liquor licences in the Barkly region. In its decision, the Commission noted that it had received community representations to also hold a similar inquiry in Alice Springs.

Having considered those representations, the Commission decided to inquire into the licence conditions regulating the supply of takeaway liquor in Alice Springs and the surrounding district.

On 3 September 2018, the Commission commenced consultations by notifying potentially affected licensees and invited written submissions. Submissions were also invited from members of the public, government agencies and community organisations relating to conditions which might apply to takeaway licences in Alice Springs and the surrounding district with a view to minimising alcohol related harm in the community. Submissions closed on 28 September 2018. Submissions not marked as “Confidential” are posted below.

The Commission has concluded its review having considered the information, data, views and suggestions it received through the consultation process.

By formal notice required under section 33(3) of the Liquor Act 1978, the Commission has notified specified licensees of its proposal to add conditions to takeaway licences requiring the reporting of suspicious transactions, in order to assist police to detect, prosecute, deter and prevent illegal secondary supply of liquor. Further, the Commission proposes to impose a Special Condition on the Kulgera Hotel and the Desert Oaks Motel (Erlunda) similar to restrictions on the sale of takeaway liquor currently in force for the Curtin Springs Roadhouse.